Former Manchester United and England defender Rio Ferdinand is baffled by Arsenal’s decision to let go of their academy graduate Joe Willock.
The 21-year-old spent the second half of last season on loan at Newcastle United. The midfielder played a key role in the Magpies’ survival, scoring eight goals in 14 Premier League appearances. The Englishman scored seven goals in seven consecutive games helping Steve Bruce’s side achieve a mid-table finish.
Following Willock’s impressive display at the bank of Tyne, the Newcastle boss was desperate to keep hold of the Hale End graduate. And recent reports have disclosed that the north London club have agreed on a £20 million deal to sell the youngster.
However, speaking on his YouTube channel, Rio Ferdinand was befuddled by the Gunners’ decision to sell the 21-year-old. The Englishman praised the youngster and claimed that it will be quite a coup for the Magpies.
Ferdinand further stated that the north London club are currently in ‘no man’s land’. They are not a threat to any top teams at the moment and it will take them a long time to regain their perch.
“I don’t know how Arsenal have let Joe Willock go. The guy scores goals from midfield. I really like him. I don’t understand that. Newcastle have done unbelievable well to get him by the way, I think he’s a really good talent. He scores goals, he expects to score, he’s a good mover, makes good runs.
“With Arsenal, I know they’re building and Arteta is trying to build something and he’s setting the foundations there, but they’re in no man’s land. They’re not a threat to anybody. It’s sad to see because I really like Arsenal.”
Arsenal Fever View:
Selling Joe Willock is a brave move from Arsenal. The midfielder was linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium through the summer and cashing in on him might turn out to be the right decision.
The north London club are desperate to sign a new creative midfielder this summer and in order to achieve that goal, they’ll need to raise funds. Martin Odegaard and James Maddison are linked with a move to the Emirates and securing their services will not come cheap.
The Gunners are looking for a squad overhaul this summer and having already spent around £75 million, Arteta’s side had to fund the transfer budget by selling players. The 21-year-old was one of the most sellable assets of the squad and cashing in on him will help the Spanish boss to generate funds for other targets.
After finishing eighth in back-to-back seasons, Arsenal had to show ruthlessness in the transfer market. So, following the departure of Willock, it will be interesting to see if the Emirates club can pull off the deal for a new creative midfielder.
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